Historic Philadelphia

Liberty Bell Information

Liberty Bell Information

The Liberty Bell was cast in the Whitechapel Foundry in London and hung in the belfry of the Pennsylvania State House in 1753. That building is known today as Independence Hall. The bell cracked upon its first use before being recast twice by John Pass and John Stow, of Philadelphia. You can see their names inscribed on the bell as well as a Biblical verse from Leviticus, "Proclaim Liberty throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof." After the Liberty Bell was repaired, it rang for a George Washington birthday celebration but it cracked again and has not been rung since. No one knows why the bell cracked either time. The Liberty Bell did not always hold that name. A group that was trying to outlaw slavery first referred to it as the "Liberty Bell" and used it as a symbol for their cause. The Liberty Bell was showcased around the U.S. to help bring everyone together after the Civil War. The bell returned to Philadelphia in 1915 where Americans and people from around the world come together to see this silent reminder of how powerful liberty is. Today, millions of visitors get a glimpse of the Liberty Bell thanks to the National Park Service.

Visiting the Liberty Bell

Open daily, 9am-5pm

Admission is free, tickets are not required

Can't make it in time? Get a hotel room and stay over! Or, you can also see the Liberty Bell from the outside through large glass windows

What's Next?

Enjoy lunch by the fountain, putt through the Liberty Bell in Philly Mini Golf, or take a spin on the Parx Liberty Carousel at Franklin Square. Learn more »

Come inside to the birthplace of the American flag and meet Betsy at the Betsy Ross House. Learn more »

Bring history to life on this truly unique and special experience on Independence After Hours. After enjoying an authentic Colonial dinner, encounter the Founding Fathers as they passionately debate the Declaration of Independence during your exclusive after hours tour of Independence Hall.

Did you know Philadelphia was once the carousel-making capitol of the world? Come enjoy a spin on the Parx Liberty Carousel, play a round in Philly Mini Golf - the 18-hole Philadelphia-themed miniature golf course, and enjoy the best shake in town at SquareBurger!

Group Information

Plan your group trip to Historic Philadelphia with unique experiences from the Betsy Ross House, Franklin Square, and Once Upon A Nation! From interactive Storytelling tours and Philadelphia-themed mini golf to performances by historic reenactors, it's all listed right here!